Posted by: admin 2 months ago

ELMWOOD TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Groundbreaking took place last week on a $29 million freshwater research center in Elmwood Township, marking the start of construction on a facility designed to serve as a hub for science and education.

The research center will be built at Discovery Pier and operated through Northwestern Michigan College and the Discovery Pier nonprofit. The project aims to provide educational opportunities for students while offering resources for researchers and public learning spaces focused on freshwater conservation.

Supporters say the initiative extends beyond scientific research to economic development for the region.

Ground is broken on a freshwater research center at Discovery Pier. (Courtesy of Discovery Pier)Ground is broken on a freshwater research center at Discovery Pier. (Courtesy of Discovery Pier)

“It’s really going to help Traverse City diversify our economy. You know, we’re in a strategically located place being kind of in the geographic center of the great lakes,” said Matt McDonough, CEO of Discovery Pier.

The facility is expected to capitalize on the area’s location within the Great Lakes region, positioning Traverse City as a center for freshwater research and education. The center will provide new academic opportunities for students while creating public spaces dedicated to freshwater conservation awareness.

Northwestern Michigan College and the Discovery Pier nonprofit will jointly oversee operations at the new research facility.

The project is expected to be completed by March 2027.

An artist's rendering of the freshwater research center at Discovery Pier. (Courtesy of Discovery Pier)An artist's rendering of the freshwater research center at Discovery Pier. (Courtesy of Discovery Pier)

 

Spectrum News 1
By Jack Caron